RU: Macclesfield MP Sir Nicholas Winterton has backed the Rugby Football Union's bid to stage the 2007 Rugby World Cup and bring international rugby to the town.

The RFU's innovative plan is for a 20-team World Cup and a simultaneous 20-team Rugby World Nations Cup (RWNC) for 20 emerging countries.

Macclesfield Rugby Club's Priory Park ground has been selected as a potential host for a game between two of the sides in the RWNC.

Sir Nicholas Winterton MP said: "As a retired player, but still an active follower of the game, I am delighted that Priory Park has been identified as a possible host for a game between two of the sides competing in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

"I wish the RFU well in its bid to bring the 2007 World Cup to England since it would provide Macclesfield Rugby Club with an excellent opportunity to build on its previous experience and success in hosting international and other major fixtures at the excellent Priory Park ground."

Macclesfield have already hosted the England v Italy under-19s international this season, and chairman Alan Johnson said: "It would be a great boost to the club, town and the development of rugby in the area. We are used to hosting representative matches and we would make our guests very welcome."

As well as the support of Sir Nicholas, the club counts among its fans Lord Thomas of Macclesfield, whose son Brendan captains the second team.

Graeme Cattermole, chairman of the RFU management board, added: "The fact that Macclesfield has been chosen to potentially host a game such as Chile versus the Cook Islands will be important to them because the club and the town will feel part of the Rugby World Cup."

RFU chief executive Francis Baron said: "The Rugby World Nations Cup gives the teams taking part a fantastic platform from which to promote the game in their own country, which will provide them with exposure and commercial benefit."

The bid was delivered to the International Rugby Board on January 15 and enhances the RFU's aim of 'putting rugby first'. France are the other nation competing to host RWC 2007, and a decision from the IRB is expected on April 10.